Cervical collar

Abstract

A cervical collar includes a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person's neck. The first component is inflatable. The cervical collar also includes a second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person's neck. The first component and the second component are removably coupled to one another to restrict movement of the person's neck relative to a spine axis.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1CERVICAL COLLAR CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 719,542, filed on November 12, 2024, the entire contents of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present disclosure relates to a medical device, and more specifically, a cervical collar.

[0003] Cervical collars are often used to support and immobilize a person’s neck after a traumatic head or neck injury. A head or neck injury can result in an unstable cervical fracture, ligamentous injury or a spinal cord injury. The likelihood of a spinal cord injury increases if the head and neck are left unrestricted when an unstable cervical spine injury exists. There are different types of cervical collars, such as soft cervical collars or rigid cervical collars that may be employed in various scenarios.SUMMARY

[0004] The disclosure provides, in one aspect, a cervical collar that includes a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person’s neck. The first component is inflatable. The cervical collar also includes a second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person’s neck. The first component and the second component are removably coupled to one another to restrict movement of the person’s neck relative to a spine axis.

[0005] The disclosure provides, in another aspect, a cervical collar that includes a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person’s neck. The first component is inflatable. The cervical collar also includes a second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person’s neck. The second component is rigid and includes a first support configured to support a person’s chin, a second support configured to support the second component on a person’s chest, an opening configuredPage l of 32Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1to provide access to a person’s neck, and a plurality of attachment points configured to couple the second component to the first component.

[0006] The disclosure provides, in another aspect, a method of stabilizing a head and neck of a person with a cervical collar. The cervical collar includes a first component being an inflatable, and a second component. The method includes positioning the first component peripherally around a first side of a neck of the person, positioning the second component peripherally around a second, opposite side of the neck of the person, coupling the first component to the second component, and inflating the first component to support and stabilize the head and neck of the person and maintain a cervical spine of the person in a neutral position.

[0007] Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 is a side view of a cervical collar in accordance with an example of the disclosure, illustrating the cervical collar coupled to a person and including an anterior brace, a posterior brace, and a stabilization mechanism that is movable between a deployed position and a collapsed position.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a front view of the cervical collar of FIG. 1, illustrating the stabilization mechanism in the deployed position.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the cervical collar along line 3 — 3 of FIG. 2, illustrating a support component configured to engage the person’s occipital bone.

[0011] FIG. 4A is a side view of the cervical collar of FIG. 1, illustrating a support component in accordance with another example in a retracted position.

[0012] FIG. 4B illustrates the support component of FIG. 4A in an extended position.

[0013] FIG. 5 is a side view of a cervical collar in accordance with another example of the disclosure, illustrating a stabilization mechanism which is an inflatable balloon.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0014] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cervical collar in accordance with another example of the disclosure, illustrating an opening on an anterior brace of the cervical collar.

[0015] FIG. 7 is a front plan view of the cervical collar of FIG. 6, illustrating a tube support adjacent the opening.

[0016] FIG. 8A is a front plan view of the cervical collar of FIG. 6, illustrating a pair of arms each having a cradle configured to engage the person’s occipital bone.

[0017] FIG. 8B is another front plan view of the cervical collar of FIG. 8A.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a rear plan view of the cervical collar of FIG. 6, illustrating each cradle engaged with the person’s occipital bone.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a cervical collar in accordance with another example of the disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a cervical collar in accordance with another example of the disclosure, illustrating a pair of arms each having a cradle that is pivotable relative to the arms.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a side view of a cervical collar in accordance with another example of the disclosure, illustrating a stabilization mechanism in the deployed position.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a side view of a stabilization mechanism in accordance with another example of the disclosure that is movable between a deployed position and a collapsed position.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a slide carriage that may be used together with the cervical collar of the previous examples.

[0024] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a cervical collar in accordance with another example of the disclosure that is coupled to a person.

[0025] FIG. 16 is a side view of the cervical collar of FIG. 15 while the person is lying down.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0026] FIG. 17 is a rear view of an example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15.

[0027] FIG. 18 is a top view of the posterior component of FIG. 17.

[0028] FIG. 19 is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15

[0029] FIG. 20 is a zoomed-in view of a connector facilitating a fluid connection between air bladders of the posterior component of FIG. 19.

[0030] FIG. 21 is another zoomed-in view of the connector of FIG. 20 illustrating a valve configured to selectively deflate one of the air bladders of the posterior component.

[0031] FIG. 22 is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15

[0032] FIG. 23A illustrates a step in an example method of using the posterior component of FIG. 22 when a first air bladder of the posterior component in an initial deflated state behind the neck of a person.

[0033] FIG. 23B illustrates another step in the method of using the posterior component when the first air bladder of the posterior component in a partially / fully inflated state, which begins to translate the helmet off of the person’s head.

[0034] FIG. 23C illustrates another step in the method of using the posterior component when the first air bladder in an inflated state and a second air bladder of the posterior component in an inflated state, which translates the helmet off of the person’s head even further.

[0035] FIG. 24 is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 illustrating a connection between air bladders.

[0036] FIG. 25 is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 illustrating another example of a connection between air bladders.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0037] FIG. 26 is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 illustrating another example of a connection between air bladders.

[0038] FIG. 27 is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 illustrating an air bladder having a foldable section.

[0039] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the posterior component of FIG. 27 illustrating the folded section of the air bladder in an unfolded state.

[0040] FIG. 29 is a front view of another example of the posterior component of FIG. 27.

[0041] FIG. 30 is a side, perspective view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 that is coupled to the person.

[0042] FIG. 31 is another side, perspective view of the posterior component of FIG. 30 illustrating the helmet being translated off of the person’s head by the posterior component.

[0043] FIG. 32 is a perspective view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15.

[0044] FIG. 33A is a front view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 that is in a folded, deflated state.

[0045] FIG. 33B is a front view of the posterior component of FIG. 33 A in an unfolded state after being inflated.

[0046] FIG. 34 a zoomed-in view of the posterior component of FIG. 33A illustrating a fastener connection between folded sections of the posterior component in the folded, deflated state.

[0047] FIG. 35 is a perspective view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 that is in a folded state.

[0048] FIG. 36 is another perspective view of the posterior component of FIG. 35.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0049] FIG. 37A illustrates a step in an example method of using a posterior component with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 according to another example of the of the disclosure when the posterior component in an initial deflated state behind the neck of a person.

[0050] FIG. 37B illustrates another step in the example method of using the posterior component when the posterior component is being coupled to the cervical collar.

[0051] FIG. 37C illustrates another step in the example method of using the posterior component when the posterior component is coupled to the cervical collar and is partially inflated.

[0052] FIG. 37D illustrates another step in the example method of using the posterior component when the posterior component is coupled to the cervical collar and is fully inflated.

[0053] FIG. 38 is a perspective view of another example of a posterior component for use with the cervical collar of FIG. 15.

[0054] FIG. 39 illustrates a step in an example method of using a posterior component of FIG.38 with the cervical collar of FIG. 15 in accordance with another example of the disclosure when the posterior component in an initial deflated state behind the neck of a person.

[0055] FIG. 40 illustrates another step in the example method of using the posterior component when the posterior component is being coupled to the cervical collar and is in an expanded, or inflated state.

[0056] FIG. 41 is a side view of an inflatable component of the posterior component of FIG.38 when the inflatable component is deflated.

[0057] FIG. 42 is another side view of the inflatable component of FIG. 41 when the inflatable component is inflated or expanded.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0058] Before any examples of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. TheAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1disclosure is capable of other examples and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

[0059] Features illustrated or described as part of one example can be used with another example to yield a still further example. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. The Detailed Description uses numerical and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the invention.

[0060] As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached to,” and the like refer to both direct coupling, fixing, or attaching, as well as indirect coupling, fixing, or attaching through one or more intermediate components or features, unless otherwise specified herein. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” “including,” “has,” “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but may include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive- or and not to an exclusive- or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0061] Terms of approximation, such as “generally,” “approximately,” or “substantially,” include values within ten percent greater or less than the stated value. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions within ten degrees of vertical in any direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0062] Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems are described below with regard to specific examples. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that may cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, or essential feature of any or all the claims.

[0063] FIG. 1 illustrates a medical device or cervical collar 100 that is configured to stabilize the head and neck of a person. The cervical collar 100 inhibits, or restricts movement of the person’s neck and head, and more specifically, inhibits neck extension, flexion, lateral flexion, and head rotation using various components. That is, the cervical collar 100 maintains alignment between the cervical spine, the thoracic spine, and the lumbar spine when worn by the person. As explained in further detail below, the cervical collar 100 is advantageously adjustable and manipulable to allow medical personnel to assess the front and back of the person’s neck, place and maintain an endotracheal tube in the person’s neck in case of breathing issues, stabilize the person’s head, and hold or raise the person’s head and neck off a support surface (e.g., ground, gurney, table, flat surface, etc.) while maintaining alignment of the person’s head and neck to remove a helmet and / or other protective equipment 104 (e.g., shoulder pads, jacket, etc.) from the person.

[0064] With reference to FIG. 1, the cervical collar 100 includes a first or posterior brace 108 and a second or anterior brace 112. The posterior brace 108 and the anterior brace 112 may be selectively coupled together via different mechanisms. For example, the braces 108, 112 may be coupled together via hook-and-loop fastening straps 116 (FIGS. 1 and 6), over-center latches, buckles, or other quick-disconnect mechanisms. In other examples, the braces 108, 112 may be arranged as a clamshell where the braces 108, 112 are pivotably coupled together at one end and buckled or attachable to each other at the other end. The illustrated posterior and anterior braces 108, 112 are both substantially C-shaped or semi-circular such that the braces 108, 112, when coupled together, surround the person’s neck. For example, the posterior brace 108 is positioned peripherally around a first side of a person’s neck, and the anterior brace 112 is positioned peripherally around a second side of a person’s neck.

[0065] In some examples, and with reference to FIGS. 1 and 5, the anterior brace 112 includes a chin support 118 that may be placed against a person’s chin. The anterior brace 112 may alsoAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1include an opening 120 (FIGS. 5 and 6) that generally aligns with the person’s trachea - or more specifically, the person’s cricothyroid cartilage - when the anterior brace 112 is properly situated on the person’s neck. This allows medical personnel to assess the throat of the person wearing the cervical collar 100 and triage any breathing issues. In the situation where a cricothyrotomy is performed, the anterior brace 112 may include a tube support 124 (FIG. 7) adjacent the opening 120. The tube support 124 includes a rail 128 along which a tube support arm 132 is slidably coupled to, allowing the tube support arm 132 to move along a direction parallel to the person’s trachea. Specifically, the tube support arm 132 includes a holder 136 that may move along axis 140. The axis 140 is generally aligned with and parallel to the person’s trachea. The holder 136 also may selectively receive and hold an endotracheal tube relative to the person’s trachea via a quick-disconnect mechanism 144. In some examples, the quick-disconnect mechanism 144 is a ratchet, a hook-and-loop fastener strap, a buckle latch, a snap latch, or other similar type of mechanism. When the tube support arm 132 is properly aligned with the person’s cricothyroid cartilage, the tube support arm 132 may be locked in placed relative to the rail 128, thereby inhibiting further movement of the tube support arm 132 relative to the opening 120.

[0066] With continued reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the posterior brace 108 is placed behind the person’s neck. As best illustrated in FIG. 3, a support component 148 is coupled to the posterior brace 108. The support component 148 is shaped like a shoehorn and is engageable with the person’s occipital bone of the skull to support the person’s head against gravity. The support component 148 is movably coupled to the posterior brace 108 between a retracted position, in which the support component 148 extends from the posterior brace 108 a first distance DI, and an extended position, in which the support component 148 extends from the posterior brace 108 a second distance D2 that is greater than the first distance D I . In other words, the support component 148 is adjacent the posterior brace 108 in the retracted position and is spaced away from the posterior brace 108 in the extended position.

[0067] With reference to FIG. 3, an extension mechanism 152 moves the support component 148 between the retracted position and the extended position along the inferior or superior direction, which are commonly used terms in the medical industry for describing direction relative to the human body. The inferior direction is a term used in anatomy to describe a position that is lower or away from the head of the body, whereas superior direction describes a direction towardAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1the head end of the body. In other words, the support component 148 moves between the retracted position and the extended position along a direction generally parallel to the person’s spine (defining a spine axis 150 through the cervical spine). “Generally parallel” means the support component 148 may move in a direction that is angled 0 degrees to 15 degrees relative to the spine axis 150. The support component 148 is moving in the superior direction when moving from the retracted position toward the extended position. In one example, the extension mechanism 152 is a rack and pinion mechanism, in which the rack is, for example, coupled to the support component 148 and the pinion is, for example, coupled to the posterior brace 108. To extend and retract the support component 148, medical personnel may rotate the pinion to move the rack, and therefore, the support component 148. The pinion, or a mechanism that may rotate the pinion, is disposed on the lateral aspects of the cervical collar 100 to be easily accessible to medical personnel. The support component 148 is moved toward the extended position until a distal end of the support component 148 engages the person’s occipital bone. A ratchet mechanism may engage the rack and pinion to enable the support component 148 to move freely toward the extended position while inhibiting the support component 148 from moving toward the retracted position without first disengaging the ratchet mechanism. In a situation where the person is wearing protective equipment, and more specifically a helmet, the distal end 153 of the support component 148 may be extended until the distal end is located or positioned between the person’s occipital bone and the helmet to support the person’s head against gravity. In other examples, the extension mechanism 152 includes an over-center linkage mechanism that actuates and locks the support component 148 in the extended position. In this example, medical personnel may rotate a lever to actuate the extension mechanism 152 and move the support component 148 toward or away from the extended position.

[0068] With reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, the cervical collar 100 may include a support component 148a which, as illustrated, is a 3-bar linkage and is engageable with the person’s occipital bone to support the person’s head against gravity. The support component 148a is connected to lateral sides of the cervical collar 100 via linkages 149 and is movable between a retracted position (FIG. 4A), in which a distal end 153a of the support component 148a extends from the posterior brace 108 a first distance DI, and an extended position (FIG. 4B), in which the distal end 153a of the support component 148a extends from the posterior brace 108 a secondAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1distance D2 that is greater than the first distance DI. In other words, the support component 148a is adjacent the posterior brace 108 in the retracted position and is spaced away from the posterior brace 108 in the extended position. The extension mechanism 152 is actuated to move the support component 148a between the retracted position and the extended position.

[0069] With reference to FIG. 5, the cervical collar 100 may include a support component 148b which, as illustrated, includes an inflatable balloon that is engageable with the person’s occipital bone to support the person’s head against gravity. The support component 148b (i.e., primary balloon) is movable between a deflated position, in which the support component 148b is deflated, and an inflated position, in which the support component 148b is inflated to support the person’s head. The illustrated support component 148b is inflated and deflated via a pilot balloon 154 and a bleed valve, respectively. The pilot balloon 154 and the balloon of the support component 148b are connected via tubing extending through a portion of the cervical collar 100. The pilot balloon 154 is accessible for medical personnel at the front of the anterior brace 112 (e g., adjacent the opening 120). In other examples, a syringe is coupled to the tubing via a luer lock system and is actuated to transfer air from the syringe to the primary balloon.

[0070] With reference to FIGS. 6-9, the cervical collar 100 may include a support component 148c that is monolithically formed with the anterior brace 112 and that is engageable with the person’ s occipital bone to support the person’ s head against gravity. Specifically, the anterior brace 112 includes a pair of arms 156 that extend rearward from the chin support 118 and around the person’s neck. Each arm 156 terminates at a distal end defining a cradle 160 that extends inwardly towards each other. That is, the cradle 160 from each arm 156 extends inwardly to be positioned behind and engage the occipital bone of the person’s head. Thus, the support component 148b provides two supports (FIG. 9) — one cradle 160 supporting one lateral side of the occipital bone and the other cradle 160 supporting the opposing lateral side of the occipital bone.

[0071] With reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, the cervical collar 100 may include a support component 148d (FIG. 10) or a support component 148e (FIG. 11). Briefly, the support component 148d is similar to the support component 148c but shaped differently. The pair of arms 156d extend rearward from the chin support 118d, around the person’s neck, and terminate at the cradle 160d. The cradle 160d extends inwardly toward the occipital bone of the person’s head. As illustrated inAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1FIG. 11, the support component 148e includes the pair of arms 156e that extend rearward for the chin support 118e and around the person’s neck. Each cradle 160e is pivotably coupled to the pair of arms 156e to enable proper positioning of the cradle 160e relative to the person’s occipital bone. In some examples, the cradles 160e may couple together via a quick-disconnect mechanism to provide additional support.

[0072] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the cervical collar 100 includes a kickstand or stabilization mechanism 164 that stabilizes the cervical collar 100 relative to the support surface. The stabilization mechanism 164 also maintains the person’s head in an elevated position relative to the support surface. For example, the stabilization mechanism 164 includes a pair of rods 168 that extend from the cervical collar 100 to engage the support surface. Each pair of rods 168 includes a first end 172 coupled to the anterior brace 112 and a second, distal end 176 cantilevered away from the anterior brace 112. The distal end 176 extends in a direction toward the support surface and is engageable with the support surface when the cervical collar 100 is coupled to the person’s neck (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1). When the rods 168 are engaged with the support surface, the person’s head is maintained elevated off the support surface. Each rod 168 extends laterally outward from the anterior brace 112 at an angle of approximately 5 degrees to approximately 45 degrees relative to the spine axis 150. Specifically, each rod 168 extends laterally outward from the anterior brace 112 at an angle of approximately 10 degrees to approximately 15 degrees relative to the spine axis 150. A leg 180 is disposed at the distal end 176 which extends perpendicular to the spine axis 150 and further aid in stabilizing the stabilization mechanism 164, and therefore, the person’s head. With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the cervical collar 100 may include a stabilization mechanism 164a (FIG. 11 and 12) or a stabilization mechanism 164b (FIG. 13) that is coupled to and extends from the cervical collar 100. The stabilization mechanisms 164, 164a, 164b are movably coupled to the cervical collar 100 between a collapsed position and a deployed position via a pivotable connection. Preferably, the stabilization mechanism 164a is pivotably coupled to the pair of arms 156 (or 156c, 156d), as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12. As shown in FIG.13, the stabilization mechanism 164b is a 3-bar linkage that moves between the collapsed position and deployed position. In the deployed position, the person’s head is elevated or raised off the support surface when the stabilization mechanism 164b is in the deployed position. Still, in other examples, the stabilization mechanism 164 may be a telescoping mechanism that slides betweenAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1the collapsed position and the deployed position. In yet other examples, the stabilization mechanism 164, 164a, 164b may be integral with or removably coupled to the cervical collar 100.

[0073] In general, the stabilization mechanism 164, 164a, 164b restricts extension of the head / neck (i.e. falling to the ground) when the helmet is removed. For example, a helmet offsets the head approximately an inch or two off the ground when worn. As the helmet is removed, gravity will cause the head to fall unless the head is otherwise supported. The stabilization mechanism 164, 164a, 164b provides a countervailing force against gravity and the shoehorn (in one example) ensures that this countervailing force supports the occipital skull. While the shoehorn does not significantly restrict rotation of the head, in some examples, the stabilization mechanism 164, 164a, 164b may also inhibit the cervical collar 100 (and therefore the person’s neck and head) from rotating clockwise CW and counterclockwise CCW about the spine axis 150 when engaged with the support surface. For example, the stabilization mechanism 164, 164a, 164b may include extendable rods, telescoping components, or other structural elements that deploy (e.g., laterally, vertically, or in any direction between laterally and vertically) to engage the support surface. In these examples, the stabilization mechanism 164, 164a, 164b counteracts rotational forces and stabilizes the head and neck, allowing for controlled positioning of the head relative to the support surface during medical intervention.

[0074] With reference to FIG. 14, the cervical collar 100 may further includes a slide carriage 184 that is attachable to the posterior brace 108 and may be positioned on the support surface underneath the person’s head. The slide carriage 184 facilitates removal of the person’s helmet in a controlled and stable manner. The slide carriage 184 includes a pair of rails 188 and a crossbar 192 that couples the pair of rails 188 together. The crossbar 192 extends between the rails 188 and is sized to allow medical personnel to kneel on the crossbar 192. The slide carriage 184 further includes a cleat 196 slidably coupled to each rail 188. When the slide carriage 184 is properly positioned, the cleats 196 slide along the pair of rails 188 in a direction parallel to the spine axis 150. Also, the cleats 196 are disposed adjacent each lateral side of the person’s helmet and cooperatively cradle the rear of the person’s helmet while medical personnel remove the helmet by grasping both the cleats 196 and the person’s helmet simultaneously to ensure both move together.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0075] During operation, medical personnel position the posterior brace 108 behind the person’s neck and position the anterior brace 112 against the person’s clavicle. The posterior brace 108 may be placed behind the person’s neck without rotating the person’s head, for example, by pulling the posterior brace 108 across the support surface via Nitinol tubes, guide wires, or other similar mechanisms until the brace 108 is properly situated. The chin support 118 is also placed under and against the person’s chin. At this point, the posterior brace 108 and the anterior brace 112 are coupled together via fastening straps 116. Then, medical personnel manipulate the extension mechanism 152 to move the support component 148 from the retracted position toward the extended position. The extension mechanism 152 is extended until the distal end of the support component 148 engages the persons’ occipital bone.

[0076] With the support component 148 locked in extension (via the ratchet pawl mechanism previously described), the stabilization mechanism 164 is deployed to each lateral side of the person’ s head to engage the support surface. Rather than medical personnel lifting and holding the person’s head from the support surface (e.g., ground, gurney, table, flat surface, etc.), the stabilization mechanism 164 maintains the person’s head in an elevated position or raised off the support surface and positioned relative to the surface so that the person’s cervical spine is aligned with the person’s thoracic. When the person is wearing a helmet, the slide carriage 184 is positioned on the support surface underneath the person’s head. The cleats 196 engage opposite lateral sides of the person’s helmet, at which point medical personnel grasp the helmet and the cleats 196 to slide the helmet off the person’s head in the superior direction along the spine axis 150. With the helmet off, shoulder pads may also be removed in the superior direction. When the person’s shoulder pads are being removed, the shoulder pads slide past the person’s head and mechanically interfere with the stabilization mechanism 164. The stabilization mechanism 164 automatically moves to the collapsed position in response to the shoulder pads sliding past the stabilization mechanism 164.

[0077] FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another example of a cervical collar 200. Like the cervical collar 100, the collar 200 is configured to stabilize the head and neck of a person by inhibiting, or restricting movement of the person’s neck and head, and more specifically, by inhibiting, or restricting neck extension, flexion, lateral flexion, and head rotation about the spine axis 150 (FIG.1) using various components.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0078] The cervical collar 200 includes an anterior component 202 and a posterior component 228. In the illustrated example, both the anterior component 202 and the posterior component 228 are braces that support and restrict movement a person’s neck to maintain a neutral spine. The anterior component 202 is positioned peripherally around a first side (e.g., a front side) of the person’s neck, and the posterior component 228 is positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side (e.g., a rear side) of the person’s neck. The illustrated anterior component 202 is rigid and defines a chin support 204 having chin padding 220 for supporting a person’s chin or jaw. The illustrated anterior component 202 also defines a chest support 208 including chest padding 224 supporting the chest support 208, and subsequently the anterior component 202, on the person’s chest. In the illustrated example, the chest support 208 includes a plurality of cut-outs 226 configured to add a certain degree of flexion to the support 208 to reduce overall rigidity. The anterior component 202 also includes an opening 212 located between a plurality of attachment points 216. The opening 212 is generally aligned with the person’s trachea to facilitate anterior access to the neck during emergency medical procedures. Each of the attachment points 216 are configured to couple to the posterior component 228 to couple the anterior component 202 and the posterior component 228 together.

[0079] In the illustrated example, the posterior component 228 is an inflatable air bladder that includes a plurality of air chambers or cells that are configured to be selectively inflated by an inflator (not shown), such as a manual squeeze bulb, via a tube 236, or air conduit. In some examples, the air chambers or cells are oriented parallel to the spine axis 150 (FIG. 1). The posterior component 228 includes a plurality of wings 232. The illustrated posterior component 228 includes one wing 232 located on either side of the posterior component 228 that are configured to couple to the attachment points 216 on the anterior component 202. In the illustrated example, the wings 232 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 232 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other methods appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0080] An example method of stabilizing a patient’s head and neck in a neutral position with the cervical collar 200 can include sliding the deflated posterior component 228 behind the patient’s neck, fastening the anterior component 202 to the front of the patient’s neck, and securing the posterior component 228 to the anterior component 202 by coupling the wings 232 to theAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1attachment points 216 via the hook and loop fasteners. The posterior component 228 is inflated by the inflator until the posterior component 228 completely unfolds, which may partially or fully displace the helmet 104 off of the person’s head. Once the helmet 104 is displaced off of the person’s head and / or other sports equipment is removed (e.g., protective padding), the posterior component 228 is partially deflated to maintain the patient’s head and neck in the neutral position.

[0081] FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate another example of a posterior component 300 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 300 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator (not shown), such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The illustrated posterior component 300 includes a first bladder 304 and a second bladder 308 coupled to the first bladder 304. The first bladder 304 and the second bladder 308 are oriented relative to each other such that the first bladder 304 is positioned axially in front of the second bladder 308 so that portions of the bladders 304, 308 overlap each other. For example, in the illustrated example, the first bladder 304 is configured to contact the patient (e.g., contact the neck of the patient) and the second bladder 308 is positioned between the first bladder 304 and the ground.

[0082] To couple the posterior component 300 to the anterior component 202 of the cervical collar 200, the first bladder 304 includes a plurality of wings 312. The wings 312 are located on opposite sides of the first bladder 304 and are configured to couple to the attachment points 216. In the illustrated example, each of the wings 312 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 312 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods.

[0083] The illustrated posterior component 300 can be inflated by the inflator via tubing 316 that is coupled to the inflator and the bladders 304, 308. The tubing 316 includes a valve 320 (e.g., a one-way valve) configured to direct air flow from the inflator into the bladders 304, 308. In operation, the inflator is configured to inflate individual bladders 304, 308, or both bladders 304, 308 simultaneously. Inflating the bladders 304, 308 independently from one another, or together, allows for the user to customize the positioning of the patient’s neck and spine to ensure neutral positioning during treatment of the patient. Likewise, to maintain neutral positioning of the patient’s neck and spine, the second bladder 308 is selectively removable from the first bladderAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1304. In some instances, removing the second bladder 308 from the first bladder 304 is advantageous over deflating the second bladder 308. Similarly, coupling the second bladder 308 to the first bladder 304 to quickly add extra padding or height between the first bladder 304 and the ground can be advantageous in some instances to quickly stabilize the patient’s head and neck.

[0084] FIGS. 19-21 illustrate another example of a posterior component 400 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 400 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator such as a pump or other suitable inflation device, including a manual squeeze bulb or a battery-driven device. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators known in the art. The illustrated posterior component 400 includes a first bladder 404 and a second bladder 408 coupled to the first bladder 404. In some examples, the first bladder 404 and the second bladder 408 are coupled to each other by hook and loop fasteners, snaps, zippers, or other fasteners known in the art. In the illustrated example, the first bladder 404 and the second bladder 408 lie in the same plane and are coupled to one another to form a unitary body such that the second bladder 408 forms an upper part of the component 400 and the first bladder 404 forms a lower part of the component 400. The first bladder 404 includes a plurality of wings 412. The illustrated bladder 404 includes one wing 412 located on opposite sides of the first bladder 404 that are each configured to couple to the attachment points 216. In the illustrated example, the wings 412 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 412 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods.

[0085] In the illustrated example, the posterior component 400 can be inflated by the inflator via tubing 416 that is fluidly coupled to the inflator and the second bladder 408. In other examples, the tubing 416 can be coupled to the first bladder 404. The first bladder 404 and the second bladder 408 are in fluid communication with each other and are connected together by a connector 420 (e.g., a flexible tube). The connector 420 forms a fluid connection between an opening 428 in the second bladder 408 and an opening in the first bladder 404. The illustrated opening in the first bladder 404 is formed by a valve 432. The valve 432 allows air to flow along an airflow path 424 from the inflator, into the second bladder 408, and then into the first bladder 404. The inflator is configured to inflate both the first bladder 404 and the second bladder 408. In the illustrated example, the valve 432 is a one-way valve that allows for the second bladder 408 to be deflatedAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1while the first bladder 404 remains inflated. To selectively deflate the second bladder 408, a cap 436 is removed from the valve 432, which permits air to escape from the second bladder 408, but not the first bladder 404.

[0086] FIG. 22 illustrates another example of a posterior component 500 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 500 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator 536, such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator 536 may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The illustrated posterior component 500 includes a first bladder 504, and a second bladder 508 coupled to the first bladder 504 by a slide fastener 520 (e.g., a zipper). The slide fastener 520 couples the first bladder 504 and the second bladder 508 together by interlocking teeth 524. In the illustrated example, the first bladder 504 and the second bladder 508 lie in the same plane and are coupled to one another for form a unitary body such that the second bladder 508 forms an upper part of the component 500 and the first bladder 504 forms a lower part of the component 500. In some examples, the second bladder 508 increases in width toward the center of the bladder 508 to provide support for the head of the patient and help reduce posterior flexion. The first bladder 504 includes a plurality of wings 512. The illustrated first bladder 504 includes one wing 512 located on opposite sides of the first bladder 504 that are each configured to couple to the attachment points 216. In the illustrated example, the wings 512 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners 516. In other examples, the wings 512 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods.

[0087] The posterior component 500 is selectively inflated by the inflator 536 via tubing 528 that is coupled to the first bladder 504 and the second bladder 508 via respective ports 532, 534 located on the bladders 504, 508. The inflator 536 is configured to inflate the first bladder 504, the second bladder 508, or both at the same time. In other examples, separate inflators can be coupled to ports 532, 534 to individually inflate the bladders 504, 508. In other examples, the second bladder 508 also includes a unidirectional valve to permit the second bladder 508 to be decoupled from the first bladder 504 without deflating the first bladder 504.

[0088] FIGS. 23A-23C illustrate an example method of stabilizing a patient’s head and neck using the posterior component 500 and the collar 200. The method includes sliding the deflatedAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1posterior component 500 behind the patient’s neck, fastening the anterior component 202 to the front of the patient’s neck, and securing the posterior component 500 to the anterior component 202 by coupling the wings 512 to the attachment points 216 via the hook and loop fasteners 516. Next, the first bladder 504 of the posterior component 500 is inflated by the inflator 536. In some instances, the first bladder 504 is inflated until the cervical spine is secure and in a neutral position. As the first bladder 504 is inflating, the force from the air filling the bladder 504 may at least partially move or translate or displace the helmet 104 relative to the patient’s head. After the first bladder 504 is inflated to the desired level, the second bladder 508 is inflated by the inflator 536, which moves the helmet 104 further off of the patient’s head until the helmet 104 can be removed by the medical provider with the patient’s cervical spine still secure and in the neutral position. After the helmet 104 is removed, the medical provider decouples the second bladder 508 from the first bladder 504 by unzipping the second bladder 508 from the first bladder 504 with the slide fastener 520.

[0089] FIG. 24 illustrates another example of a posterior component 600 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 600 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator, such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The illustrated posterior component 600 includes a first bladder 604, and a second bladder 608 coupled to the first bladder 604. In the illustrated example, the first bladder 604 and the second bladder 608 lie in the same plane and are coupled to one another to form a unitary body such that the second bladder 608 forms an upper part of the component 600 and the first bladder 604 forms a lower part of the component 600. The first bladder 604 includes a plurality of wings 612. The illustrated bladder 604 includes one wing 612 located on opposite sides of the first bladder 604 that are each configured to couple to the attachment points 216. In the illustrated example, the wings 612 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 612 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods.

[0090] In the illustrated example, the posterior component 600 can be inflated by the inflator via tubing 616 that is coupled to the inflator and the first bladder 604. In other examples, the tubing 616 can be coupled to the second bladder 608. The first bladder 604 and the second bladder 608 are in fluid communication with each other and can each be selectively deflated by a seal 620. TheAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1seal 620 is configured to prevent air from escaping air outlets 624, 628 formed in the respective bladders 604, 608. The illustrated seal 620 is a self-sealing tab that is coupled to the air outlet 624 on the first bladder 604 and the air outlet 628 on the second bladder 608. The self-sealing tab or seal 620 forms an airtight connection between the outlets 624, 628 of the bladders 604, 608 and the seal 620. To deflate the first bladder 604 and / or the second bladder 608 the seal 620 is selectively torn off of the desired outlet 624, 628 to remove the airtight seal between the bladders 604, 608 and the seal 620, which permits the air escape through the outlet 624, 628.

[0091] FIG. 25 illustrates another example of the posterior component 600 with differences explained below. In the illustrated example, the bladders 604, 608 are coupled to each other by a hook and loop fastener connection 610 so that the second bladder 608 is removably coupled to the first bladder 604. In other examples, the first and second bladders 604, 608 can be coupled to each other in other ways that would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The illustrated example of the posterior component 600 includes tubing fluidly coupled to both the inflator and the bladders 604, 608. The inflator is configured to inflate the first bladder 604, the second bladder 608, or both bladders 604, 608 via the tubing. In the illustrated example, the tubing includes a first section 632 coupled to the first bladder 604, and a second section 636 coupled to the second bladder 608. The illustrated second section 636 of the tubing is removably coupled to the first section 632 via a valve 640. In the illustrated example, the valve 640 is a one-way valve, which allows for the second bladder 608 to be decoupled and deflated from the first bladder 604 without deflating the first bladder 604.

[0092] FIG. 26 illustrates another example of the posterior component 600 with differences explained below. The illustrated example of the posterior component 600 includes tubing 642 fluidly coupled to both the inflator and the bladders 604, 608. The inflator is configured to inflate the first bladder 604, the second bladder 608, or both bladders 604, 608 via the tubing 642. In the illustrated example, the tubing 642 includes a first section 648 coupled to the first bladder 604, and a second section 652 coupled to the second bladder 608. In the illustrated example, the first section 648 and the second section 652 of the tubing 642 are connected by a valve 644 (e g., a oneway valve), which controls airflow through the sections 648, 652 to selectively inflate the bladders 604, 608. The second bladder 608 also includes a release valve 656 configured to release air onlyAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1from the second bladder 608 so that the second bladder 608 can be deflated separately from the first bladder 604 without deflating the first bladder 604.

[0093] FIGS. 27 and 28 illustrate another example of a posterior component 700 for use with the collar 200. The posterior component 700 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator, such as a manual squeeze bulb or other similar device. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators known in the art. The illustrated posterior component 700 includes an air bladder 704 that has wings 708 located on opposite sides of the bladder 704. The wings 708 are configured to couple to the attachment points 216 on the collar 200. In the illustrated example, the wings 708 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 708 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other methods appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0094] The bladder 704 also includes one or more foldable sections 710. The foldable sections 710 are be fastened to the bladder 704 by a fastener assembly 714. In the illustrated example, the fastener assembly 714 includes a tab 716 extending from the foldable section 710 and a strap 720 coupled to the bladder 704. The strap 720 is configured to cover the tab 716 and affix to the bladder 704 to retain the tab 716 between the strap 720 and the bladder 704. In some examples, the strap 720 affixes to the bladder 704 using hook and loop fasteners. As illustrated in FIG. 28, the foldable section 710 can be selectively folded away from the bladder 704 (e.g., moved to an unfolded position) to form a gap 706 in the bladder 704. In some instances, the patient’s head can be positioned within the gap 706 to allow for neutral positioning of the head and neck after removing equipment, such as the helmet 104 or other pads, from the patient.

[0095] FIG. 29 illustrates another example of the posterior component 700 with differences explained below. The illustrated posterior component 700 includes a first bladder 704A, and a second bladder 704B that is removably coupled to the first bladder 704A by connection points 728. In some examples, the connection points 728 can be fastened together by snaps, hook and loop fasteners, or the like. Each of the bladders 704A, 704B is selectively inflatable by the inflator via air inputs 724 so that individual bladders 704A, 704B can be inflated, or both bladders 704A, 704B can be inflated simultaneously.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0096] FIGS. 30 and 31 illustrate another example of a posterior component 800 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 800 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator, such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. Upon inflation of the posterior component 800, the helmet 104 of a patient is partially or fully removed from the patient’s head (e.g., the posterior component 800 may have a shape that, when inflated, wedges the helmet 104 away from the neck area). The illustrated posterior component 800 includes a plurality of air cells 804 that are oriented vertically such that each of the cells 804 are oriented parallel to the spine axis 150 (FIG. 1). Orienting the cells 804 in this manner provides both support and flexibility when positioning the posterior component 800 peripherally around the back side of the patient’s neck. During inflation of the component 800, each of the cells 804 partially moves the helmet 104 off of the patient’s head.

[0097] FIG. 32 illustrates another example of a posterior component 900 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 900 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator, such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. Upon inflation of the posterior component 900, the helmet 104 of a patient is partially / fully removed from the patient’s head. The illustrated posterior component 900 includes a first bladder 904, and a second bladder 908 removably coupled to the first bladder 904 by a plurality of attachment points 912 on each of the bladders 904, 908. In the illustrated example, the attachment points 912 are configured to couple to each other by hook and loop fasteners. The first bladder 904 includes a plurality of cells 906 that are stacked on top of each other. Each of the cells 906 are oriented generally transverse to the spine axis 150 and curve about the spine axis 150 to conform to the patient’s head during use. Similarly, the second bladder 908 includes a plurality of cells 910 that are stacked on top of each other, and each of the cells 910 are oriented generally transverse to the spine axis 150 and curve about the spine axis 150 during use. Additionally, in the illustrated example, when the bladders 904, 908 curve about the spine axis 150 to conform to the back side of the patient’s head, a gap 916 is formed between the bladders 904, 908. In some instances, the collar 200 can be positioned in the gap 916.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0098] FIGS. 33A-34 illustrate another example of a posterior component 1000 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 1000 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator, such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The illustrated posterior component 1000 includes an air bladder 1004 having wings 1008 disposed on opposite sides of the bladder 1004. The wings 1008 are configured to couple to the attachment points 216 on the collar 200. In the illustrated example, the wings 1008 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 1008 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods. When the air bladder 1004 is deflated (FIG 33A), prior to being used, the bladder 1004 is folded over itself and retained in this folded position by a plurality of fasteners 1016. In the illustrated example, the fasteners 1016 are hook and loop fasteners, although in other examples the fasteners 1016 may be other fasteners. Upon being inflated (FIG. 33B), the fasteners 1016 decouple from each other and the bladder 1004 unfolds. The bladder 1004 also includes tubing 1012 that is in fluid communication with the inflator, which is used to inflate the bladder 1004.

[0099] FIGS. 35 and 36 illustrate another example of a posterior component 1100 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 1100 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator, such as a manual squeeze bulb. In other examples, the inflator may be other types of inflators appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The illustrated posterior component 1100 includes an air bladder 1104 having wings 1108 disposed on opposite sides of the bladder 1104. The wings 1108 are configured to couple to the attachment points 216 on the collar 200. In the illustrated example, the wings 1108 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 1108 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods. Before being inflated, the bladder 1104 is folded over itself and coupled together by a plurality of tabs 1112. Each of the tabs 1112 is fastened to a folded part of the bladder 1104 by a fastener 1116 to retain the bladder 1104 in the folded state. In the illustrated example, the fastener 1116 is a hook and loop fastener; in other examples, the fastener 1116 may be other fasteners appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. In the illustrated example, the tabs 1112 are configured to rest on the ground (FIG. 36) and are removed from the folded part of the bladder 1104 so that the bladder 1104 can be unfolded and inflated afterAttorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1the posterior component 1100 is positioned underneath the back side of the patient’s neck. For example, the bladder 1104 may be unfolded while the bladder 1104 is inflated.

[0100] FIGS. 37A-D illustrate another example of a posterior component 1200 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 1200 is an inflatable air bladder configured to be inflated by an inflator 1212, such as an electronic inflator. In the illustrated example, the inflator 1212 is an electronic inflator that includes an electric motor, an air pump driven by the motor, and a battery for powering the motor. The electronic inflator 1212 also includes, in some examples, a pressure feedback sensor electrically coupled to the motor that is part of a pressure sensing circuit configured to automatically cease inflation of the bladder 1204 when an internal pressure within the bladder 1204 reaches a predetermined threshold. In other examples of the inflator 1212, the inflator 1212 may be powered by an external power source and may be actuated by a user-accessible switch on the inflator 1212, or a wireless control interface. Furthermore, in other examples, the inflator 1212 may be other types of inflators known in the art, such as an electronic inflator that automatically inflates the bladder 1204 to a predetermined pressure using a pressurized cartridge (e.g., a CO2 cartridge), or a manual inflator. In examples when the inflator 1212 is a manual inflator, the manual inflator (e.g., a squeeze bulb) includes a pressure gauge corresponding to the internal pressure of the bladder 1204. In some examples, the pressure gauge includes a color-coded dial where the colors correspond to the internal pressure of the bladder 1204. For example, green could correlate to an optimal operating pressure of the bladder 1204, while white / yellow could correlate to an underfilled bladder 1204, and red could correlate to an over-filled bladder 1204.

[0101] The illustrated posterior component 1200 includes an air bladder 1204 having wings 1208 disposed on opposite sides of the bladder 1204. The wings 1208 are configured to couple to the attachment points 216 on the collar 200. In the illustrated example, the wings 1208 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the wings 1208 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods. The bladder 1204 also includes tubing 1216 coupled to both the bladder 1204 and the inflator 1212.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0102] An example method of stabilizing a patient’s head and neck using the posterior component 1200 and the collar 200 can include sliding the deflated posterior component 1200 behind the patient’s neck, fastening the anterior component 202 to the front of the patient’s neck, and securing the posterior component 1200 to the anterior component 202 by coupling the wings 1208 to the attachment points 216 via the hook and loop fasteners. Next, the air bladder 1204 is inflated by the inflator 1212. In some instances, the bladder 1204 is inflated until the internal pressure of the bladder 1204 is within a predetermined threshold or until the neck and head of the patient are secure and in a neutral position (FIG. 37D).

[0103] FIGS. 38-42 illustrate another example of a posterior component 1300 for use with the cervical collar 200. The posterior component 1300 is an inflatable component. In the illustrated posterior component 1300, the inflatable component is a foam 1306 that includes an open-cell structure configured to self-inflate upon exposure to the ambient air. The posterior component 1300 also includes a support 1304 coupled to the foam 1306 that is configured to support the back side of the patient’s neck, and straps 1308 extending from opposite sides of the support 1304. The straps 1308 are configured to couple to the attachment points 216 on the collar 200. In the illustrated example, the straps 1308 and the attachment points 216 are fastened together by hook and loop fasteners. In other examples, the straps 1308 and the attachment points 216 may be fastened to each other using other known methods. The illustrated posterior component 1300 also includes a protective sleeve 1312 surrounding the foam 1306 that includes loops 1316 for retaining the straps 1308 on the sleeve 1312. The illustrated protective sleeve 1312 is a polymer sleeve (e.g., a plastic sleeve) that surrounds the foam 1306 as the foam 1306 expands. In other examples, the protective sleeve 1312 may be other materials.

[0104] FIGS. 39 and 40 illustrate an example method of stabilizing a patient’s head and neck using the posterior component 1300 and the collar 200. The illustrated method can include sliding the deflated posterior component 1300 behind the patient’s neck, fastening the anterior component 202 to the front of the patient’s neck, and securing the posterior component 1300 to the anterior component 202 by coupling the straps 1308 to the attachment points 216 via the hook and loop fasteners. Next, the foam 1306 is exposed to the ambient air and is inflated to maintain the head and neck of the patient in a neutral position.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1

[0105] Although the cervical collar has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred examples, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the disclosure as described. It will be appreciated that each feature may form the basis of one or more claims on its own or in any combination with any other feature or features. The order in which the structure and features is described in no way informs the features that, alone or in combination, may be novel and inventive. The order has been described is only for convenience and should not be construed as limiting regarding what may be claimed.REPRESENTATIVE FEATURES

[0106] Representative features are set out in the following clauses, which stand alone or may be combined, in any combination, with one or more features disclosed in the text and / or drawings in the specification.Clause 1. A cervical collar comprising: a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person's neck, the first component being inflatable; and a second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person's neck, wherein the first component and the second component are removably coupled to one another to restrict movement of the person's neck relative to a spine axis.Clause 2. The cervical collar of clause 1, wherein the first component is an inflatable air bladder configured to be selectively inflated by an inflator.Clause 3. The cervical collar of clause 2, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes wings located on opposite sides of the inflatable air bladder.Clause 4. The cervical collar of clause 3, wherein the second component further comprises a plurality of attachment points and the wings are configured to couple to one or more of the plurality of attachment points to couple the wings on the inflatable air bladder to the second component.Clause 5. The cervical collar of clause 2, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes foldable sections.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1Clause 6. The cervical collar of clause 2, wherein the inflatable air bladder is folded upon itself when it is deflated, and the inflatable air bladder unfolds upon inflation by the inflator.Clause 7. The cervical collar of clause 1, wherein the first component is an inflatable air bladder including a first air bladder and a second air bladder that are configured to be inflated by an inflator.Clause 8. The cervical collar of clause 7, wherein the first air bladder is inflatable concurrently with the second air bladder.Clause 9. The cervical collar of clause 7, wherein the first air bladder is inflatable separate from the second air bladder.Clause 10. The cervical collar of clause 7, further comprising a valve configured to permit the first air bladder or the second air bladder to be separately deflated.Clause 11. The cervical collar of clause 7, wherein the first air bladder is removably coupled to the second air bladder.Clause 12. A cervical collar comprising: a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person's neck, the first component being inflatable; and a second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person's neck, the second component being rigid and including a first support configured to support a person's chin, a second support configured to support the second component on a person's chest, an opening configured to provide access to a person's neck, and a plurality of attachment points configured to couple the second component to the first component.Clause 13. The cervical collar of clause 12, wherein the first component is an inflatable air bladder configured to be selectively inflated by an inflator.Clause 14. The cervical collar of clause 13, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes wings located on opposite sides of the inflatable air bladder, and wherein each of the wings is configured to couple to at least one of the plurality of attachment points.Clause 15. The cervical collar of clause 13, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes a plurality of air cells oriented parallel to a spine axis.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1Clause 16. The cervical collar of clause 12, wherein the first component includes an inflatable air bladder having a first air bladder and a second air bladder that are configured to be inflated separately or concurrently by an inflator.Clause 17. The cervical collar of clause 16, further comprising a valve configured to permit the first air bladder or the second air bladder to be separately deflated from one another.Clause 18. A method of stabilizing a head and neck of a person with a cervical collar, the cervical collar including a first component being an inflatable, and a second component, the method comprising: positioning the first component peripherally around a first side of a neck of the person; positioning the second component peripherally around a second, opposite side of the neck of the person; coupling the first component to the second component; and inflating the first component to support and stabilize the head and neck of the person and maintain a cervical spine of the person in a neutral position.Clause 19. The method of clause 18, wherein inflating the first component displaces equipment off of the person's head.Clause 20. The method of clause 19, further comprising deflating the first component once the equipment is removed from the person's head.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 1CLAIMS1. A cervical collar comprising:a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person’s neck, the first component being inflatable; anda second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person’s neck,wherein the first component and the second component are removably coupled to one another to restrict movement of the person’s neck relative to a spine axis.

2. The cervical collar of claim 1, wherein the first component is an inflatable air bladder configured to be selectively inflated by an inflator.

3. The cervical collar of claim 2, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes wings located on opposite sides of the inflatable air bladder.

4. The cervical collar of claim 3, wherein the second component further comprises a plurality of attachment points and the wings are configured to couple to one or more of the plurality of attachment points to couple the wings on the inflatable air bladder to the second component.

5. The cervical collar of claim 2, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes foldable sections.

6. The cervical collar of claim 2, wherein the inflatable air bladder is folded upon itself when it is deflated, and the inflatable air bladder unfolds upon inflation by the inflator.

7. The cervical collar of claim 1, wherein the first component is an inflatable air bladder including a first air bladder and a second air bladder that are configured to be inflated by an inflator.

8. The cervical collar of claim 7, wherein the first air bladder is inflatable concurrently with the second air bladder.

9. The cervical collar of claim 7, wherein the first air bladder is inflatable separate from the second air bladder.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 110. The cervical collar of claim 7, further comprising a valve configured to permit the first air bladder or the second air bladder to be separately deflated.

11. The cervical collar of claim 7, wherein the first air bladder is removably coupled to the second air bladder.

12. A cervical collar comprising:a first component configured to be positioned peripherally around a first side of a person’s neck, the first component being inflatable; anda second component configured to be positioned peripherally around a second, opposite side of the person’s neck, the second component being rigid and includinga first support configured to support a person’s chin,a second support configured to support the second component on a person’s chest, an opening configured to provide access to a person’s neck, anda plurality of attachment points configured to couple the second component to the first component.

13. The cervical collar of claim 12, wherein the first component is an inflatable air bladder configured to be selectively inflated by an inflator.

14. The cervical collar of claim 13, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes wings located on opposite sides of the inflatable air bladder, and wherein each of the wings is configured to couple to at least one of the plurality of attachment points.

15. The cervical collar of claim 13, wherein the inflatable air bladder includes a plurality of air cells oriented parallel to a spine axis.

16. The cervical collar of claim 12, wherein the first component includes an inflatable air bladder having a first air bladder and a second air bladder that are configured to be inflated separately or concurrently by an inflator.

17. The cervical collar of claim 16, further comprising a valve configured to permit the first air bladder or the second air bladder to be separately deflated from one another.Attorney Docket No. 891225-0004- WOO 118. A method of stabilizing a head and neck of a person with a cervical collar, the cervical collar including a first component being an inflatable, and a second component, the method comprising:positioning the first component peripherally around a first side of a neck of the person; positioning the second component peripherally around a second, opposite side of the neck of the person;coupling the first component to the second component; andinflating the first component to support and stabilize the head and neck of the person and maintain a cervical spine of the person in a neutral position.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein inflating the first component displaces equipment off of the head.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising deflating the first component once the equipment is removed from the head.

Images